Important call notes
A blank page for one phone call: who you spoke to, their answers, and your next step.
Download the PDF
How to use it
- Pick the kind of help you need most. In the U.S., call Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 for places to try.
- Say where your parent lives and what help they need.
- Ask each service, “What does it cost? Who can use it? Is there a wait?”
- Write the answers and the next step on the page for that call. Use a blank page for each service, so you can compare them.
Comparing services when family help is not enough
Your parent may need help you cannot keep giving alone. Ask which help they would welcome. A cleaner may solve a laundry problem, a meal service may solve supper, and help with dressing or moving needs someone trained for it.
Write your parent’s tasks and hours first, then ask each service about that same work. Ask the full price, who can use it, whether there is a wait, who comes if the worker is sick, and who employs and insures the staff. Ask for the price and terms in writing.
If you hire someone yourself, you may become their employer, which can make pay rules and taxes your job, so ask a tax professional before paying. Show the answers to your parent, and confirm the tasks, total cost, and backup before booking.
